Chile: Adverse weather forecast across much of the country through at least May 5

Severe weather is forecast across much of Chile through at least May 5. Moderate-to-heavy rainfall is expected across parts of south-central Chile and strong winds are likely across much of the country. Snowfall is likely over elevated areas of south-central Chile and may combine with strong winds to cause blizzard conditions in affected areas. Winds gusting up to 90 kph (56 mph) are possible across parts of the country and rainfall totals of up to 4 cm (1.6 inches) are possible in south-central regions. The National Disaster Prevention and Response Service (SENAPRED) has issued a green early warning alert (the lowest level on a three-tier scale) across Biobio, La Araucania, Los Rios, and Maule regions and parts of Antofagasta Regions due to the anticipated severe weather conditions. Heavy downpours may trigger flooding in low-lying areas, and strong winds could cause property damage and power outages.

As of early May 3, the Chilean Meteorological Directorate has issued the following weather warnings across the affected area:

• Orange heavy rainfall warnings (the middle level on a three-tier scale): Parts of Biobio Region.

• Yellow heavy rainfall warnings: Parts of Biobio, La Araucania, Los Lagos, Los Rios, and Nuble regions.

• Yellow heavy snowfall warnings: Parts of Aysen, Biobio, La Araucania, Los Lagos, Los Rios, and Nuble regions.

• Yellow strong wind warnings: Parts of Antofagasta, Atacama, Biobio, Coquimbo, La Araucania, Maule, Metropolitan, Nuble, O'Higgins, and Valparaiso regions.

Authorities will likely issue new alerts or update/rescind existing advisories as weather conditions change over the coming days.

Where precipitation falls as rain, flash, and areal flooding is possible. Such flooding is possible in low-lying communities near watercourses and other large bodies of water, as well as in urban areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream of large reservoirs may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall.

Precipitation could fall as snow in higher elevations over the coming days. Wind gusts could cause blowing and drifting snow; decreased visibility is likely in mountainous areas. Rain-induced landslides cannot be discounted in areas of elevated terrain; there is also the possibility of avalanches in mountainous areas where the snowpack has become unstable due to heavy snowfall. Power outages could occur throughout the affected area.

Floodwaters and related debris may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around the affected area. Flooding in urban areas could also result in significant traffic congestion. Heavy snow will likely make driving hazardous in some areas; authorities could implement temporary road closures or detours in such locations. Mountain passes, and tunnels could be closed as a precautionary measure during periods of intense snowfall.

The disruptive weather will likely cause some delays and cancellations at airports in affected areas. Authorities may temporarily suspend port operations if strong winds trigger hazardous sea conditions, impacting freight and passenger maritime traffic. Flooding or snow could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are possible in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track blockages.

Disruptions triggered by inclement weather and resultant hazards, such as flooding or avalanches, could persist well after conditions have improved - it could take days before any floodwaters recede and/or officials clear debris. If there is severe damage to infrastructure, repair or reconstruction efforts may result in residual disruptions.